Veterinary Wards Nursing Supervisor

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world‑renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly‑regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning.

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Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Veterinary Wards Nursing Supervisor

Veterinary Head Nurse

The University of Pennsylvania Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital is seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Wards Nursing Supervisor to lead the nursing team in one of our busiest inpatient areas. The Wards department provides 24/7 care to a diverse and dynamic patient population, requiring a strong leader who excels in communication, organization, and clinical expertise. This role combines active, on‑the‑floor supervision with administrative responsibilities to ensure exceptional patient care, staff development, and efficient hospital operations in an academic veterinary setting.

The Wards Nursing Supervisor will manage a growing team of Credentialed Veterinary Technicians (CVTs) and Veterinary Assistants responsible for delivering high‑quality care to hospitalized patients. We are seeking a self‑motivated CVT with demonstrated leadership experience and a passion for mentorship, patient care, and team collaboration. The Wards Supervisor plays a vital role in fostering a positive, supportive work environment while maintaining high standards of care and operational excellence.

This position is an active, on the floor supervisor role, with some time off the floor for administrative responsibilities.

• Work alongside nursing staff to provide direct patient care, demonstrate clinical judgment, and promote real‑time mentorship and skill development.
• Communicate effectively with the nursing team to prioritize and organize treatments, ensuring an efficient and coordinated workflow.
• Collaborate closely with students, nurses, clinicians, and the Wards Clinical Advisor to meet patient needs and maintain continuity of care.
• Provide instruction and supervision to veterinary and Harcum College nursing students assigned to the Wards service.

• Provide leadership, guidance, and vision for the Wards nursing team.
• Develop and manage 24/7 nursing schedules, including holiday coverage, while addressing schedule gaps and call‑outs in a timely manner.
• Partner with the Talent Acquisition Specialist to recruit and retain skilled staff that meet the operational needs of the service.
• Collaborate with the Wards Clinical Nurse Educator and Wards Operations Manager to ensure effective onboarding, training, and adherence to policies and workflows.
• Clearly define staff expectations, responsibilities, and performance metrics.
• Foster professional development, career growth, and positive employee relations.
• Address performance issues promptly and conduct annual and mid‑year performance appraisals in Workday.
• Work collaboratively with other supervisors, clinicians, and…